why? why? why? why? why? why? why?

Just to cover this from the start the answer is not “because”. The above is a reminder of one of the best critical thinking tools that we have. I have always called it the “7 whys”.

This method is a vital first step to problem solving. As we all have heard the first step to solving a problem is defining the problem. The next step is figuring out what is the underlying cause of that issue. Some people call this the “root cause”. What it is called does not matter, what matters is that this “root cause” has to be addressed with any solution to a problem.

Which brings us to the “7 whys”. After you have defined the problem you can then wheel out this powerful and simple technique. Ask yourself “why does this problem happen”? And take each answer and ask “why does that happen” six more times and you will have uncovered the root cause of the problem. This is a simple tool, but very powerful in identifying the true challenge you need to solve.

A simple example to show you how this works (this example was taken from isixsigma.com)

Problem Statement: You are on your way home from work and your car stops in the middle of the road.
1. Why did your car stop?
- Because it ran out of gas.
2. Why did it run out of gas?
- Because I didn't buy any gas on my way to work.
3. Why didn't you buy any gas this morning?
- Because I didn't have any money.
4. Why didn't you have any money?
- Because I lost it all last night in a poker game.
5. Why did you lose your money in last night's poker game?
- Because I'm not very good at "bluffing" when I don't have a good hand.

Note that you do not always need all “7 whys” but you get the point.

Next time you are looking at a problem use the “7 whys” to make sure you are addressing the core issue. Also note you can use the H and W questions (How, What, Where, Who, When and of course Why) in sequence to drive to the core of a discussion or issue. The essence of critical thinking is to get to the vital issues that matter and this tool is a smart, simple and effective way to begin.

So try to use the “7 whys” to look at the next problem you are wrestling with. It gives a great perspective on the problem, it’s cause and solution. The next time you are presented with a problem, remember that you should not start by trying to come up with a solution right away but instead try starting with asking “why?”.